Many of us over the last year have used the Gallup annual poll from 2009 that showed 44% support. This year's poll unsurprisingly finds that the issue is trending even more towards re-legalization.
In an affirmation of arguments made over these past few years for cannabis ballot initiatives, we see in this poll that the issue cuts across partisan lines. Just under one out of three conservatives and Republicans support re-legalization. (29% for repubs, 30% for conservatives). In fact, Calitics reported that Yes on 19 supporters may be cause for Barbara Boxer's lead over wingnut Carly Fiorina. If that turns out to be even partially the case, then Prop 19 is a success even if it loses.
www.yeson19.com
(flip)
Unfortunately, Gallup seems to be following the blind when it comes to the issue of fed law vs state law, saying:
Arguments for and against legalizing marijuana -- for personal or medical use -- are likely to continue for years to come. Even if Proposition 19 wins in California on Nov. 2, as state law it will still come up against federal law, which bans the growth and sale of marijuana.
Like others, I was upset when Eric Holder came out 'swinging' against Prop 19. Upon further reflection, however, I don't feel that the Obama admin will make any serious attempt to overturn the will of the voters. Scott Morgan over at drc.net goes into a bit more depth to show why the Obama admin is likely not targeting the Dem base on this issue.
After seeing the DOJ and DADT debacle, and the anger from the LGBT Democratic base, it concerned me to think we may see a backlash amongst CA voters. However, there are differences between the LGBT groups and pro-pot groups in CA. One notable difference is the presence of a small but persistently unintelligent group of activists in CA who claim to support cannabis, but oppose Prop 19 because it will somehow invalidate Prop 215 or result in some tinfoil hat conspiracy outcome. I call them the tea partiers of the cannabis movement. In contrast, I don't remember any LBGT groups coming out saying that if we legalize gay marriage, then it will become illegal to be gay.
California people: let's hope that Steve Cooley (R-wignuttia) doesn't win the state AG office, or quibbling about Eric Holder and Obama's stances on cannabis will not only be moot, but laughable, compared to the caveman approach that Cooley brings to this issue. [he is impetus behind shutdown of hundreds of cannabis dispensaries, and is on record as opposed to upholding Prop 19 as AG]
Another day, another example of Prohibition working great for Mexico.